Gambling in Tokelau

Gaming Laws in the Tokelau Islands

There is no organized gambling on the island of
Tokelau. It is unknown whether or not it would be legal
to do so, but the small population and meager incomes of
the residents are more than enough to prevent the
gambling industry from flourishing.

Facts About Tokelau

Tokelau is comprised of three coral atolls in the
South Pacific Ocean, each of which is considered a
territory of New Zealand. Tokelau, sometimes referred to
as The Union Islands or Tokelau Islands, is considered a
Non-Self-Governing Territory.

The islands of Tokelau are situated halfway between
Hawaii and New Zealand. They are around 500 miles north
of Samoa.

The islands which comprise Tokelau are: Atafu, once
known as the Duke of York Group, Nukunonu, once known as
the Duke of Clarence Group, and Fakaofo, which was also
known as Bowditch Island. A fourth island, Swains
Island, also exists, but it has been under the control
of the United States since 1925.

Evidence suggests that the atolls were settled around
1000 years ago. Atafu was discovered in 1765 by
Commodore John Byron. Nukunonu was discovered in 1791.
Fakaofo was discovered in 1835.

All total, the three islands have a combined
population of less than 1,500. The Polynesian residents
speak both Tokelauan and English. Many of those born on
the islands have emigrated to New Zealand or Samoa.

Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state for Tokelau.
An appointed head of government represents her in these
matters.

Tokelau has the smallest economy of any country in
the world. Per capita, their annual purchasing power is
estimated to be $1,000. They receive financial aid from
New Zealand, as well as having medical and educational
services provided.

In recent years, Tokelau has sold its domain name, .tk,
in order to increase its GDP. This has also allowed the
country to get Internet access for residents and more
computers.

Many children travel to New Zealand to receive an
education. Each year around Christmas, they load up on
boats and come back to the island to see their families.
Once the holidays are over, they head back again for
another year of study.